Michael Taylor

POPS: The Man, The Myth, The Legend.

Michael Taylor was born in Bonners Ferry Idaho on October 19, 1946. A couple of years later his parents, Clyde and Wilma, moved him and his sister LouWanna to Ballard Washington.

Michael graduated from Ballard High School, class of 1964. He was a naturally gifted athlete playing football, basketball, and baseball.

Michael loved people and worked in the restaurant business where he could be around people all the time.

In the early 80's Michael married and headed east where he managed Hidden Valley Guest Ranch in Teanaway, Washington.

In 1982, their only son, Joshua was born. Michael was a devoted father and loved playing the part.

Living at the Ranch was one of Michael's favorite span of times to reminisce about. He always considered himself a cowboy or mountain man and loved horses, wildlife and the open country.

Michael eventually settled in Leavenworth, Washington and resided up on Mountain Home, where he managed a guest lodge for almost 2 decades. This supported his love for the outdoors, wildlife, and people.

He became somewhat of an iconic social figure in Leavenworth and was better known as "Pops". Every softball season, you could find Pops down at Enchantment Park coaching his team in a bright colored softball jersey that was almost as loud as his yell. He brought as much spirit and heart to those fields as anyone ever has.

In the off season, you could find Pops out at the Leavenworth Golf Club playing rounds with Josh and his friends or managing the "Reserved for locals" table down at Uncle Uli's Pub and bringing his spirited comaradrie to the crowds. Otherwise, he loved going out into the woods to look for wildlife.

Just a few of Pop's many memorable characteristics were his ability to laugh, to make others laugh as well as his ever-lasting loyalty to his friends. He was always willing to help out.

Pops passed away May 12th, 2020, the same day and month his mother passed on 46 years before.

Pops is survived by his sister LouWanna (Taylor) Lacher and her husband Norm, his son Joshua, his daughter-in-law Kelly and his grandson Quinten. He has also left behind many loving friends, including his best friend in the world, Deborah.

We love you Pops - we'll listen for you yelling on the fields!